APRIL 6: In a significant initiative to bolster healthcare services for tribal populations, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram inaugurated a two-day Mega Medical Camp at Sundargarh Government Medical College & Hospital, Odisha. The camp is being organised as part of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, AIIMS Delhi, and the Government of Odisha.
In his inaugural address, Shri Oram reiterated the Central Government’s unwavering commitment to holistic tribal development, with a strong emphasis on healthcare access in remote and underserved areas. He lauded the medical experts from AIIMS Delhi for their dedication and compassionate service to tribal communities in the region.
Marking the occasion with an act of inclusivity, the Minister distributed wheelchairs to nearly 100 persons with disabilities, underscoring the government’s determination to ensure accessible healthcare for all. Shri Oram also engaged directly with patients, encouraging them to avail themselves of the specialised medical services being offered.
Specialised Medical Services and Diagnostic Support
The camp brings together experts from 19 specialist departments of AIIMS Delhi, including Cardiology, Haematology, General Medicine, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Surgery, and Orthopaedics, among others. These specialists are delivering consultations, diagnosis, and treatment to patients from all 18 blocks of Sundargarh district and neighboring areas.To support comprehensive care, the camp offers free diagnostic services, including ECG, Ultrasound, X-rays, and Blood tests. Free medicines are also being distributed based on prescriptions by AIIMS doctors.
The response from the local community has been overwhelming. On the first day alone, over 1,500 patients benefited from the services. With the camp continuing on April 6, the outreach is expected to grow significantly.This Mega Medical Camp aligns with the objectives of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023. With a target to eradicate sickle cell disease by 2047, the mission is central to the Ministry’s community-centric healthcare approach.The Sundargarh camp exemplifies the government’s goal to ensure quality healthcare access in tribal areas, fostering healthier, more self-reliant, and empowered tribal communities across India.